Statement by Mayor Bratina upon the passing of Hamilton&#039;s Santa Claus Jimmy Lomax

10 October 2011

The following is a statement issued today by Mayor Bob Bratina upon learning of the passing of Hamilton’s Santa Claus Jimmy Lomax:Media Release: Mayor Bratina’s remarks regarding the passing of Jimmy Lomax
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** Chapman, Peggy **

** 10 October 2011 13:37 **

To: “DL – News Media (Local)”

Cc: DL – Council & Support Staff , DL – SMT & ACs

As Mayor of the City of Hamilton I want to express my personal grief at the passing of Jimmy Lomax. The flag at City Hallwill be hung at half-staff for an appropriate period of mourning in his memory.

From 1958 until his retirement from Operation Santa Claus Jimmy, wife Susan and a small core of dedicated volunteers saw to it that those in need, young or old, were visited by Santa and received a Christmas present. Over the years he touched tens of thousands of people and kept the spirit of Christmas alive for many who might otherwise have lost hope. Jimmy’s own life was not without challenges, the greatest of which was the tragic loss of his son Ryan at age 15 due to Cancer. Somehow he and Susan kept going until Jimmy’s own health issues forced his decision to finally step back from his beloved quest.

Jimmy exemplified the best of Hamilton and Hamiltonians…a humble east-ender who found a way to make a difference in people’s lives. We have lost a great man and a great friend. My sincerest condolences on behalf of our Council and myself to Susan and Jimmy’s family.